Showing posts sorted by relevance for query co-create. Sort by date Show all posts
Showing posts sorted by relevance for query co-create. Sort by date Show all posts

Thursday, September 26, 2024

Improving Mental Health Equity

Living with or supporting someone with a neurodevelopmental condition (NDC) involving risk factors may be a journey to integrate protective factors into health and wellness. Do you need help with your mental health? If you do not know where to start, this infographic may help guide you. https://go.usa.gov/xGfxz #shareNIMH


### Understanding Neurodevelopmental Conditions


Neurodevelopmental conditions encompass a broad range of developmental risk factors and may affect learning, speech, language, behavior, and social skills. I learn to recognize how each individual's experience with an NDC is unique, and therefore, different protective factors work differently for each of us. 


Exploring the Virtual Healthy School: A Model for Integrating Health and Education for Each of Us


In the digital age, the intersection of health and education has never been more pertinent. With the rise of virtual learning environments, the opportunity to integrate health-conscious strategies into the educational framework is an innovative approach to foster student development. The Virtual Healthy School (VHS), pioneered by Jefferson School under the leadership of Principal Paul, stands as a testament to this progressive educational model.


The VHS is a tool and a dynamic, interactive platform to bring the Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child (WSCC) model to life. This model is an integrative approach and extends beyond the traditional focus on academic achievement to include the health and wellbeing of students. With navigating through the School Map, educators, parents, and students may witness how Jefferson School has transformed the virtual environment into learning opportunities for each of us to integrate protective factors into health and wellness with people with neurodevelopmental conditions encompassing a broad range of developmental risk factors because of how different protective factors work differently for each of us.


At the center of the map is the Health Center to help each of us navigate our journey from a central starting point of identifying health goals to evaluate how to balance protective factors from the range of neurodevelopmental risk factors for each of us. The Health Center features an Exam Table to evaluate specific protective and developmental risk factors, health videos offering healthy choices and another map of specific health services available with multiple organizations. 

National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) on X: "If you or someone you know has a mental illness, is struggling emotionally, or has concerns about their mental health, use these resources to find help for yourself, a friend, or a family member: https://t.co/r2tTEzRPoD #MIAW #MentalIllnessAwarenessWeek" / X

SAMHSA on X: "If you or someone you know is struggling to cope emotionally with #HurricaneHelene #HurricaneMilton you're not alone. 💙 Call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990 for immediate, 24/7 emotional support. Help is just a call or text away. #Helene #Milton https://t.co/LjMSbJ3xuN" / X

NCATS on X: "View our #TranslationalScience Principles that guide our work and could help you reach your own research goals. Learn more about the principles, which were identified after a review of the strategies used in successful NCATS programs: https://t.co/Hw35luUyob https://t.co/7i7gVwiht6" / X 


Challenge of Love with Interacting with People with Neurodevelopmental Conditions

If observe suicidal symptoms, I learn the importance of 5 Action Steps to Help Someone Having Thoughts of Suicide - National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) (nih.gov) with encouragement to focus on ask, help keep safe, connect and follow up.

OSHA_DOL on X: "💬 Talking about mental health at work can be tough, but it’s crucial. Reach out to a co-worker today and let them know you care. Use our resource on how to discuss mental health. ⤵️ https://t.co/V895jyWog5 #SuicidePrevention https://t.co/pwcdAvLQUv" / X with encouragement to focus on ask if observe suicidal symptoms, ok to ask several times, listen with compassion and try to help, calling 911 if immediate danger.

Veterans Health on X: "Asking a Veteran if they are having thoughts of suicide might be daunting, but it won’t give them the idea. Be the one to start the conversation — it might save a life. Looking for the words to say? Start here: https://t.co/euGMIedMO0 https://t.co/my8XNfyWPZ" / X with crisis signs, call 911 and keep safe, with warning signs, ok to just give care and concern yet with encouragement ok to ask if observe suicidal symptoms with focus on asking about feelings, when suicidal symptoms began and what happened. Be careful to focus on supportive and encouraging comments instead of invasive questions. 

Love, affection and appreciation for empathy and joy for successful learning with technology with Technology and the Future of Mental Health Treatment - National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) (nih.gov) with Student Family Community Agenda Lesson plan

To help keep people with suicidal symptoms with neurodevelopmental conditions safe, connect and follow up, I wish to follow up with Twitter / X social media and email with blog posts. 

Follow Up Learning Opportunities

.How do we develop accountability with technology with people with neurodevelopmental conditions with suicidal symptoms with NIMH's action steps to encourage focus on ask, help keep safe, connect and follow up with Student Family Community Agenda Lesson plan?

How to cultivate my healthiest self with people with neurodevelopmental conditions? Do you recommend the protective factors offered in CDC's Virtual Healthy School to navigate the protective factors offered in the social-wellness-checklist-3.pdf (nih.gov)Physical Wellness Checklist (nih.gov)My Activity Tracker - Move Your Way _ health.govemotional-wellness-checklist-2022-7.pdf (nih.gov)CDC’s Division of Adolescent and School Health on X: "There are many benefits to participating in school meal programs. In fact, research shows that eating breakfast at school helps with academic achievement. Learn more about the benefits of school meals: https://t.co/Hj7QRfwu0h #BackToSchool https://t.co/J2UiJmaYj2" / X?

How to prioritize physical exercise to reduce bullying both in cyber space and school property? SAMHSA on X: "Addressing and preventing bullying is something that everyone can do, every day. This #BullyingPreventionMonth visit https://t.co/n7YXWNveK2 and learn how to help #StopBullying for good. https://t.co/hJ5MAURB9Z" / X I have identified bullying as an important risk factor to reduce with the development of protective factors and wish to evaluate how to prioritize physical exercise to reduce bullying through texting and social media. CDC’s Division of Adolescent and School Health on X: "New CDC data: 2023 Youth Risk Behavior Survey results are now available in the YRBS Explorer and YRBS Analysis Tool. #CDCYRBS https://t.co/4vJvrGiX2q https://t.co/N5gxA03Eom" / XNational Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) on X: "Your mental health matters. Good mental health helps you cope with stress and can improve your quality of life. During Mental Illness Awareness Week, get tips and resources from NIMH to help take care of your mental health. https://t.co/OgB1XjxZkP #MIAW" / X. This post links to a website with specific protective factors to reduce risk factors with prioritizing physical exercise.


Map of Specific Health Services Available With Multiple Organizations to Develop Protective Factors to Reduce Risk Factors: A Community Effort

CDC’s Division of Adolescent and School Health on X: "Creating a safe and supportive school environment that fosters connectedness helps students. When youth feel connected to peers and adults in their school, they’re less likely to experience poor mental health. #BackToSchool https://t.co/2fL2e7pHHS https://t.co/QOPasV7xxL" / X. This post highlights the importance of the roles of people involved with health services, counseling, facilitating, referring, leading, nutrition, coaching of students' development of protective factors to reduce risk factors, fair and accessible to everyone, addressing the needs of students, adults, parents, grandparents, neighbors, friends, and the whole community. Their efforts are organized with community organizations to offer talks and demonstrations, answer questions, and provide informational materials. 

Health Education CDC Virtual Healthy School 

Health Education on Communication

Health Education on Collaboration

Health Education in Public Parks

Health Education with Healing

Community Organizational Events


Gymnasium To Integrate Physical Activity into Academic Environments with Mindfulness, Well-being Optimal Health with NIMH webinar



The NIMH emphasizes the importance of community involvement and the creation of a safe, respectful environment to foster positive activities, kindness, and diversity acceptance. Role modeling respectful behavior is important in promoting well-being within the community.

Physical exercise is highlighted as important to mental health, with numerous studies supporting benefits in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, improving mood, and enhancing cognitive function. The #FarmToSchool program is an excellent initiative to align with these goals, celebrating partnerships between schools and regional producers to provide students with healthy, fresh foods. This program supports local agriculture and also reinforces the connection between physical and mental health, encouraging the joy of nature and the exploration of ideas to help individuals thrive. https://x.com/USDANutrition/status/1841924934618251301

Sleep, meditation, and muscle relaxation are also integral components of an integrative approach to mental health. These practices have been shown to alleviate stress, promote calm, and improve sleep quality and may have a positive impact on emotional and psychological resilience. Incorporating breathing exercises into daily routines may further enhance the relaxation response, contributing to a more balanced and stress-resilient lifestyle.

Music and social connections play a vital role in emotional support and well-being. Engaging in joyful activities such as music, expressing thankfulness, and fostering positive social connections with friends and family may provide essential emotional support. Keeping a journal to share thoughts and feelings, evaluate progress, and track healing is a therapeutic practice to aid in self evaluation and personal growth.


In recent years, the conversation around education has expanded beyond traditional academic learning to include the well-being of students. School administrators play an important role in shaping the educational environment to foster intellectual growth with physical health and emotional resilience. The #MoveYourWay Toolkit for Schools, supported with the White House's National Strategy on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health provides K-12 professionals with innovative strategies to promote physical activity and nutrition among students, aligning with the broader goal of ending hunger and fostering healthy lifestyles for 2030. Health.gov on X: "The new #MoveYourWay Toolkit for Schools supports the @WhiteHouse National Strategy on Hunger, Nutrition and Health by offering K-12 professionals, like teachers and school administrators, ways to encourage students to be more active. Learn more here https://t.co/MgCVjAPRcp" / XThe toolkit encourages educators to integrate physical activity into the school curriculum as an integral part of the learning experience. 

Mindfulness and meditation, particularly the practice of Body Scan Meditation, have also gained traction as effective tools for navigating the journey to optimal health. These practices aid in balancing protective factors and reducing risk factors, contributing to an individual's overall well-being. The Body Scan Meditation encourages awareness and relaxation to positively affect physical function, bodily pain, general health, vitality, social function, emotional, and mental health.

Incorporating technology into health and wellness initiatives, such as using SMART Boards with computers to display real-time heart rate data, may further engage students and provide immediate feedback on their physical state during activities. This integration of technology and health education may make the learning experience more interactive and informative.

As we continue to explore the connections between physical activity, mindfulness, and academic performance, I learn an integrative approach to education with movement, meditation, and health literacy are important for nurturing well-rounded, healthy individuals who are equipped to lead fulfilling lives to cater to different skill levels and interests, inclusive and accessible to all students with integrating physical activity with social interaction and team-building exercises and adjusting goals related to personal physical fitness plans, promoting self-expression and joy in physical activity with school health team discussions to provide recommendations.


This post highlights the importance of the roles of people involved with health services, counseling, facilitating, referring, leading, nutrition, coaching of students' development of protective factors to reduce risk factors, fair and accessible to everyone, addressing the needs of students to achieve health goals in the gymnasium.  

I learn the importance of regular physical activity, such as 30 minutes of social exercise, and may be as simple as a paced walk to raise and lower my heart rate with measurement of my pulse rate before exercise and with Heart Rate Monitor - Pulse App - Apps and Blood Pressure App: BP Monitor - Apps on Google Play. The benefits of such activities extend beyond physical health, fostering social interactions and emotional support. I learn the importance of 8 hours of restful slumber. Hydration and nutrition are important to physical well-being with balanced diets to fuel the body and mind. The walk could be a learning opportunity to evaluate student success to optimal health with Health Education Curriculum Analysis Tool (HECAT) | DASH | CDCCommunity Health Planning | Florida Department of Health in Indian River (floridahealth.gov) with School District of Indian River County.

With setting clear health goals with behavioral outcomes and utilizing research-based, theory-driven tools, I wish to foster an environment to value health promotion and disease prevention. This proactive stance on health education may lead to a more informed and health-literate student population, capable of making better decisions for their personal and community health.

The integration of physical activity into school lesson plans is a strategic move towards enhancing the well-being of students. I support health promotion, disease prevention, and encourage lifelong healthy habits. As educators and administrators continue to explore and implement these strategies, the potential for positive change in our schools and communities is immense. Let us walk this path together, one step at a time, towards a healthier future for our youth with learning how to achieve mindfulness, well-being optimal health goals.


Gymnasium SMART BOARD to Integrate Wellness and Education for Student Development

I measured 82 pulse rate before exercise and 82/72 after 2 30 minutes paced walks, 82/81/79 with Heart Rate Monitor - Pulse App - Apps and 79/82/69 with Blood Pressure App: BP Monitor - Apps on Google Play. 10/1/2024 

I engaged in a mindful walk with evaluating my learning experiences with the Indian River County School District. Our health goals are centered around peer-led modeling and includes walks and coaching sessions, providing therapeutic resources for problem-solving, and fostering relationships to build a positive community through constructive interactions. I am happy to report I have successfully modeled positive behaviors with integrating healthy, research-based, and theory-driven physical activities into our routine. This includes paced walking, documented through my updated blog posts, social media interactions on Twitter / X, and email communications. I measured 85 pulse rate before exercise, 82 after 1 30 minutes paced walk, 87/80 with https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=heartratemonitor.heartrate.pulse.pulseapp&pcampaignid=web_share84/79 with https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.blood.pressure.bptracker&pcampaignid=web_share. 10/2/ 2024

80 pulse rate before exercise, 80/73 after 2 30 minutes paced walks,

With the Physical Activity | Florida Department of Health (floridahealth.gov) website ideas of wellness, I evaluate how my paced walking plan helps me to reduce stress, enhance energy and focus on positive interactions with others and sleep important to achieve mindfulness, well-being optimal health goals.

83 pulse rate before exercise, 82 after 1 30 minutes paced walk,

69 pulse rate before exercise, 70/68 after 2 30 minutes paced walks,

76 pulse rate before exercise, 71 after 1 30 minutes paced walk,

80 before exercise, 75 after 1 30 minutes paced walk,

75 before exercise, 67 after 1 30 minutes paced walk,

Healthy Eating Cafeteria with Health Goals To Integrate Physical Activity into Nutritional Environments with Academic Environments with Mindfulness, Well-being Optimal Health

 With health goals organized, the cafeteria may be an extension of the Gymnasium with opportunities to learn how to integrate physical activity into the practice of healthy eating through available foods and beverages with nutrition education integrated into student health goals with role-modeling healthy eating behaviors.

Healthy eating goal choices:

1.Integrate healthy eating into health goals with physical activity with mindfulness, well-being, optimal health with protective factors of nutritional foods.

2. Evaluate food and beverage choices for breakfast and lunch with school monthly menus, evaluate food likes and dislikes, balance meals in portions with healing themes to respect the challenge of sustainability with the life energies of food and beverages DisplayFile.aspx (indianriverschools.org)DisplayFile.aspx (indianriverschools.org)USDA Nutrition on X: "School meals do more than nourish kids, they also support local farmers! This #FarmToSchoolMonth, we're celebrating our partnership with schools and regional producers that help put healthy, fresh foods on student's plates. Let's lift up local! #FarmToSchool https://t.co/7cr6zT9JUX" / X This program reinforces the connection between physical and mental health, encouraging the joy of nature and the exploration of ideas to help individuals thrive with the development of the protective factor of nutritious foods with physical exercise to reduce risk factors. School gardens become living classrooms where math and science flourish in the soil and sun. Cooking classes turn into delicious lessons on chemistry and cultural diversity. And farm field trips offer a glimpse into the hard work and dedication into growing nutritious food as a protective factor to reduce risk factors. With my school garden experience, I learned the importance of doing three simple steps:
1. Brainstorm ideas of what people enjoy and what is realistic for a garden or farm area.
2. Identify SMART goals of specific, measurable, achievable, realistic time duration goals.
3. Choose one small step to do and evaluate success.

Fresh fruits and vegetables help reduce childhood obesity and diet-related diseases and encourages young people to make healthier food choices, habits to last a lifetime.

Moreover, Farm to School initiatives foster a sense of community and connection to the land with respect for the farmers who feed us and the earth to sustain us with equitable access to nature's gifts.

3. Hydration stations to encourage drinking water with ice and cups and reusable water bottles and computers to evaluate health goals involving hydration and hygiene.

4. Fresh fruit baskets Offering baskets of fresh fruit provides healthy snack options and also exposes students to a variety of natural flavors and textures.

5. With 10 minutes for breakfast and 20 minutes for lunch, schools are encouraging students to eat mindfully, savoring their food, and listening to their hunger cues

6. Preparing for Hurricane Milton: A Comprehensive 3-Day Food Storage Checklist


As Hurricane Milton approaches and if you are on hurricane alert due to hurricane warning, I learn the importance to ensure you have a well-prepared food storage plan to sustain you and your family for at least three days. Here is a checklist to help you prepare:


1. **Water**: Store at least one gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation for 3 days.


2. **Non-perishable Food Items**:

   - Canned meats, fruits, and vegetables

   - Protein or fruit bars

   - Dry cereal or granola

   - Peanut butter

   - Dried fruit

   - Nuts

   - Crackers

   - Canned juices

   - Non-perishable pasteurized milk

   - High-energy foods

   - Food for infants

   - Comfort/stress foods


3. **Cooking Supplies**:

   - A manual can opener

   - Cooking tools and fuel

   - Disposable plates, cups, and utensils

   - Paper towels


4. **Specialty Foods**: Consider any special dietary needs for family members with allergies or medical conditions.


5. **Pet Supplies**: Don't forget food and water for your pets.


6. **Storage**: Use airtight, waterproof containers to store food and keep it protected from pests and the elements.


7. **Regular Checks**: Regularly check your food supply for expiration dates and replace as needed.


8. **Medications and Baby Supplies**: If you have a baby or someone with special medication needs, ensure you have a sufficient supply.


9. **Sanitation and Hygiene Items**: Including soap, hand sanitizer, and wet wipes.


10. **First Aid Kit**: Keep a well-stocked first aid kit with any necessary medications and medical items.


I learn to be over-prepared than under-prepared. For more detailed information and additional items to evaluate, check out resources provided by local or state emergency management departments. Stay safe and make sure to follow evacuation orders if issued by local authorities. Preparedness is key to weathering Hurricane Milton safely.

Monday, July 1, 2024

Co-creating Healthier Communities: An Integrative Approach

July presents a unique blend of learning opportunities and community engagement. Initiatives of a 50 jumping jacks contest or performing kind acts may foster a sense of camaraderie and personal achievement. Engaging in outdoor activities connects us with nature, while setting SMART goals with healthy eating may lead to healthy lifestyle changes. Evaluating my wellness tracker may help maintain focus on these goals. Webinars with Twitter/X discussions offer platforms for sharing insights on acceptance and resilience, especially relevant during the festive occasion of July 4th. These experiences, when shared with family and peers with email may support communal bonds. Moreover, integrating music with email communications into community spaces may enhance the sense of belonging and collective joy during the summer season.


Health is a state of integrative physical, mental, and social well-being. This definition with the World Health Organization underscores the multifaceted nature of health and encompasses a variety of factors including lifestyle, environment, and community support. In recognition of  #MinorityMentalHealthAwarenessMonth, I learn the importance of #communityhealth, especially among minority populations who often face significant disparities in access to healthcare services.


#Communityhealth has been magnified in recent years, particularly in light of the global pandemic and its impact on mental health. The co-creation of #communityhealth initiatives is a powerful approach to learning awareness and making efforts to solve these challenges with encouraging collaboration between individuals, communities, healthcare providers, and organizations to develop solutions culturally sensitive, accessible, and sustainable. Resources such as the MHE-Co-Creation-Toolkit and interactive physical health check tools are valuable assets in this endeavor, providing guidance and practical steps for communities to empower themselves and improve overall well-being.


One of the key aspects of co-creating healthier communities is the emphasis on preventative measures and education. For instance, the "Summer Slide" phenomenon with concerns for losses in learning, physical activity, nutrition, and sleep, may be mitigated with setting summer health goals for families. Encouraging physical activity, healthy eating, and emotional well-being [information available at Public Health Media Library (cdc.gov)] are important components of an integrative approach to health.


Co-creating healthier communities requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders with building resilience, promoting inclusivity, and promoting health equity. As we observe #MinorityMentalHealthAwarenessMonth, let us commit to empowering communities, supporting mental health, and creating a future where health is accessible and equitable for all.


Creating and Tracking SMART Goals: A Step-by-Step Guide


Setting goals is a fundamental component to long-term success. The logic is if you know where you want to go, understanding how to get there becomes much easier. 


**Specific**: The goal needs to be clear and specific to focus your efforts and feel motivated to achieve. Ask yourself: What do I want to accomplish? Why is this goal important? Who is involved? Where is the learning opportunity located? How are resources or limits involved?


**Measurable**: Measurable goals are a way to track your progress and stay motivated. Evaluating progress helps you to stay focused, meet your time frame, and feel the excitement of getting closer to achieving your goal.


**Achievable**: Your goal also needs to be realistic and attainable to be successful. In other words, it needs to stretch your abilities and remain possible. Ask yourself: How may I accomplish this goal? How realistic is the goal, based on other constraints, such as financial factors?


**Relevant**: This step is about ensuring your goal matters to you, and also aligns with other relevant goals. We all need support and assistance in achieving our goals and retain control over them with taking responsibility for achieving your own goal.


**Time-bound**: Every goal needs a timeframe to focus on and to work toward. This part of the SMART goal criteria helps to prevent everyday tasks from taking priority over your longer-term goals.


Here is one way to apply the SMART criteria to goal setting:


1. **Write down your goals**: Articulate wants to achieve using the SMART framework. Be as clear and detailed as possible.


2. **Create a plan of action**: Outline the steps to take needed to achieve your goals. This could include smaller sub-goals or tasks that are necessary to achieve the larger goal.


3. **Set milestones**: Break your main goal into smaller, more manageable validated goals. These checkpoints may help you stay on track and measure your progress.


4. **Monitor your progress**: Regularly evaluate your goals and progress. This could be done weekly, monthly, or quarterly, depending on the nature of your goal.


5. **Adjust as necessary**: Be flexible with your goals. If you find that your goals are too ambitious or too easy, adjust them accordingly.


6. **Celebrate your successes**: Take the time to celebrate when you achieve a milestone or reach your goal. This will help keep you motivated for future goals.


Remember, goal setting is an ongoing activity. Build in reminders to keep yourself on track and make regular time available to review your goals. The action plan you set for yourself along the way may change significantly. Ensure the relevance of your goals by tweaking them regularly to reflect growth in your knowledge and experience.


Achieving Heart Health with 30-Minute Paced Walks: A Path to Lower Heart Rate


The journey to a healthier heart may begin with putting on your walking shoes and stepping out the door. Walking is one of the most accessible forms of exercise and is also effective for improving cardiovascular health. For those looking to enhance their heart health, incorporating 30-minute paced walks into their daily routine is one component to a #HealthySummer.


The benefits of a daily walk are well-documented. Research has shown that engaging in a brisk 30-minute walk may lead to a decrease in resting heart rate, lower blood pressure, and reduced levels of LDL cholesterol, often referred to as "bad" cholesterol. These improvements contribute to a stronger, more efficient heart, reducing the risk of heart disease and other cardiovascular conditions.


But how does one ensure they are walking at a pace that will yield these benefits? To track progress and ensure you are walking at a pace with benefits for your heart, I have learned how to measure and monitor my heart rate during exercise. Regular walking can improve blood circulation, aid in weight management, and enhance overall well-being. This integrative approach to health helps to focus on the physical aspect and mental health benefits, such as stress reduction and improved mood. 


30-minute paced walks are a simple yet powerful exercise for achieving heart health. With engaging in this activity, you may work towards lowering your heart rate and strengthening your heart muscle and experience the benefits of walking for a healthier heart with the support of healthy eating, hydration and full rest and reaching out to create social connections to support #communityhealth with evaluation of whole health and healing PTSD symptoms with available resources with tracking positive thank you's and safe healthy learnings with Student Family Community Agenda Lesson plan.


81 with pulse rate before exercise, 81/81/74 after 3 30 minutes paced walks, 78/85/82/82 with Heart Rate Monitor - Pulse App - Apps on Google Play, 80/85/75/76 with Blood Pressure App: BP Monitor - Apps on Google Play. 7/1/2024

73 with pulse rate before exercise, 73/68 after 2 30 minutes paced walk,76/75/80 with  Heart Rate Monitor - Pulse App - Apps on Google Play, 62/74/70 with Blood Pressure App: BP Monitor - Apps on Google Play. 7/3/2024 


Resources

Thriving Together: Empowering Healthier Communities: Search results for co-create (thrivingtogethercommunityhealth.blogspot.com)

Wednesday, November 27, 2024

Challenge of Love: Encouraging Health and Togetherness

 As we continue our journey together with Thanksgiving, I want to encourage your health with  balancing risk factors with the development of protective factors. This includes focusing on eye health, engaging in meaningful dinnertime conversations, and nurturing our garden with plants to support our well-being.


I cherish the moments we give to learning together, whether through our adventures to the art museum, sketching nature art, or creating tie-dye clothing. These activities bring us joy and strengthen our bond.

Given Grandma Helen and her sister Betty both had glaucoma, I learn for us to take preventive measures. We have explored ideas for eye health, such as growing spinach and carrots in our garden. These plants are rich in nutrients to support vision health. Additionally, we have discussed the importance of dinnertime conversations to foster a supportive and loving environment.

Here are some cherishing behavior choices from our previous science projects we may incorporate:

  1. Conversations
  2. Recycling
  3. Dinner/lunch together
  4. Cooking
  5. Art
  6. Washing dishes
  7. Cleaning up
  8. Compliments with world news to encourage each other to make a difference
  9. Coffee and warm greeting
  10. Giving gifts
  11. Plant care
  12. Fixing lights
  13. Feeder care
  14. Support each other’s goals
  15. Safety from hazards of eliminate, substitute, barrier, change work habits and PPE analysis monitoring plan
  16. Follow up calls/emails
  17. Share feelings with PTSD Coach app
  18. Health Results
  19. Giving Care Experience Evaluation
  20. Receiving Care Experience Evaluation
  21. Question Builder: Prepare for Best Possible Healthy Visit
  22. Improvement 1-5 Satisfaction Score
  23. Gaps: address all gaps
  24. Give Cognitive Behavioral Homework
  25. Reminder of Upcoming Visit
  26. Ask for help to learn
  27. Gather needed resources to learn
  28. Give full attention to learning
  29. Keep learning until successful
  30. Evaluate learning
  31. Socially connect to evaluate successful learning
  32. Exercise to relieve pressures
  33. Love, care and are able to be there for all calmly
  34. Validation: molecular engagement, understand ideas, feelings, empathy with feelings, with reactions
  35. SOFTEN receptive body language with Smile, Open arms with gestures, Forward lean, Touch, Eye contact, Nod
  36. Start conversation- friendly greeting, open-ended questions based on interests in the moment
  37. Don't take negative responses personally
  38. Give oneself space to be patient and heal frustrations involving negative responses
  39. Give each other reminders of supportive techniques
  40. Be creative with creating new distractions with different routines, support, reassurance, affection, social stimulation, independence, meaning, learn how to reconnect and resolve negative responses by remeeting, ask about stories from the past, joys, positives, negative responses are a sign of needing care, avoid arguing by asking when and what questions if why questions are beyond them, help to feel safe and heard and healthy positive new distraction. When in danger of physical harm, difficulties with sleep and eating, encourage calling hotlines. With each sign of complicated brains hurting, important to improve care situation for individual needs and concerns. Brainstorming, formulating action plan, evaluation of action plan, solving problems, making decisions
  41. Spiritual gardening of connecting to home and learning with sunlight ideas with media to support outcomes love, creativity of love, thankfulness, reduce stress and improve communication skills
  42. Fun to explore joys of talking people skills, walking exercise, cooking, singing music with games play with you

I am writing to share some exciting ideas and initiatives to enhance our current health and wellness policies inspired by the recent University of Colorado webinar on healthy eating at work with details available with Thriving Together: Empowering Healthier Communities: Healthy Eating @Work

#### 1. **Art and Menu Integration**
We may introduce art with menu options to make our meals more appealing and enjoyable to celebrate our diverse cultures and tastes with potatos. We may also highlight healthier choices through information displays, decorations, and signage.

#### 2. **Evaluate Current Policies**
What works well and what needs adjustment?   This may include recognizing dietary challenges and preferences, such as plant-based diets, low-salt options, and incorporating a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat protein foods.  Balancing risk factors with the development of protective factors of taste and nutrition is important. We may use health data to create menus both delicious and nutritious, ensuring everyone enjoys their meals while meeting their dietary needs.  We may wish to encourage mindful eating practices, such as eating only when hungry and stopping when satisfied to help us maintain a healthy relationship with food.

#### 3. **Talk with Where Love is Leading**
Encouraging open and empathetic conversations about our health goals may foster a supportive environment. Let us discuss how we may support each other in making healthier choices.

#### 4. **Change Personal Behavior**
We may lead with example with adopting healthier habits ourselves. This includes making mindful food choices, staying hydrated, and practicing regular physical activity.

#### 5. **Share Information with the Team**
Regularly sharing information about healthy eating, exercise, and mental well-being may keep everyone informed and motivated. We may use emails, social media posts, and blog updates to disseminate this information.

#### 6. **Community Events Focused on Health and Well-being**
Helping to organize community events to promote health and well-being may bring us together and reinforce our commitment to a healthy lifestyle. These events may include cooking demonstrations, fitness challenges, and wellness workshops.

For more detailed guidelines, you can refer to the CDC's Guidelines for Federal Concessions and Vending Operations (https://www.cdc.gov/nutrition/media/pdfs/2024/06/guidelines_for_federal_concessions_and_vending_operations.pdf).


SDA Nutrition on X: "USDA understands the importance of serving traditional Indigenous foods and encourages operators of child nutrition programs to source locally grown and raised foods. Learn more with these resources: https://t.co/GzmD7GZ7NC #NAHM https://t.co/FnXe56iGHI" / X  Evaluating how to serve traditional Indigenous foods with locally grown and raised foods aligns perfectly with our health goals and supports sustainable practices. Here are some steps and considerations to help you integrate these foods into our nutrition goals:

### Steps to Serve Traditional Indigenous Foods

#### 1. **Research and Identify Traditional Foods**
Start by researching traditional Indigenous foods native to our region. This may include fruits, vegetables, grains, and proteins historically consumed by Indigenous communities. The USDA's [Indigenous Food Guide](https://t.co/GzmD7GZ7NC) may be helpful.

#### 2. **Source Locally Grown and Raised Foods**
Partner with local farmers and producers to source these traditional foods. This supports local agriculture and also ensures the foods are fresh and sustainably produced. Look for farmers' markets, co-ops, and community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs in our area.

#### 3. **Incorporate Nutritional Education**
Educate students and community about the nutritional benefits of traditional Indigenous foods. Highlight how these foods contribute to a balanced diet and overall health. We may create informational materials, host workshops, and invite guest speakers from Indigenous communities to share their knowledge.

#### 4. **Create Culturally Relevant Menus**
Develop menus to incorporate traditional Indigenous foods with respect and honor the cultural significance. Work with nutritionists and chefs to create recipes both nutritious and delicious. Consider celebrating Indigenous heritage through themed meals and events.

#### 5. **Promote Sustainability**
Emphasize the importance of sustainability in our food sourcing and preparation practices. Encourage the use of organic and regenerative farming methods, and minimize food waste with plants.

### Health Goals and Benefits

#### 1. **Improved Nutrition**
Traditional Indigenous foods are often rich in essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. Incorporating these foods into our diet may help improve overall health and prevent chronic diseases.

#### 2. **Cultural Connection**
Serving traditional foods fosters a sense of connection among Indigenous students and the broader school community and also provides an opportunity for non-Indigenous students to learn about and appreciate different cultures.

#### 3. **Environmental Impact**
Sourcing locally grown and raised foods reduces the carbon footprint associated with transportation and supports sustainable agricultural practices. This contributes to a healthier planet and promotes environmental stewardship.

#### 4. **Community Engagement**
Engaging with local farmers and Indigenous communities strengthens community ties and supports local economies and also provides educational opportunities for students to learn about food production and sustainability.

With evaluating and integrating traditional Indigenous foods with locally grown and raised foods, we may achieve health goals while promoting cultural awareness and sustainability. This approach benefits individual health and also supports the well-being of our communities and the environment.

Thank you for the opportunity to explore this important topic. 


### 10-Minute Guided Meditation Session

#### Introduction (1 minute)
- **Welcome**: "Welcome everyone to our guided meditation session. Today, we will take a few moments to relax, center ourselves, and practice mindfulness together."
- **Purpose**: "The purpose of this session is to promote relaxation and mindfulness, helping us to start our day with a calm and focused mind."

#### Settling In (1 minute)
- **Find a Comfortable Position**: "Please find a comfortable seated position. You can sit on a chair with your feet flat on the ground or cross-legged on a cushion. Keep your back straight but relaxed."
- **Close Your Eyes**: "Gently close your eyes and take a few deep breaths, inhaling through your nose and exhaling through your mouth."

#### Deep Breathing (2 minutes)
- **Focus on Breath**: "Begin to focus on your breath. Inhale deeply through your nose, allowing your belly to expand. Hold for a moment, then exhale slowly through your mouth, letting go of any tension."
- **Breathing Pattern**: "Continue this deep breathing pattern. Inhale for a count of four, hold for a count of four, and exhale for a count of six. Repeat this cycle a few times."

#### Body Scan (3 minutes)
- **Head to Toe Relaxation**: "Now, let's do a body scan to release any remaining tension. Start by bringing your attention to the top of your head. Notice any sensations or areas of tension."
- **Progress Down the Body**: "Slowly move your attention down to your forehead, eyes, and jaw. Relax each area as you focus on it. Continue down to your neck, shoulders, and arms, releasing any tightness."
- **Continue to Feet**: "Move your attention to your chest, abdomen, and lower back. Relax these areas. Finally, bring your focus to your hips, thighs, knees, calves, and feet. Let go of any tension you find."

#### Visualization (2 minutes)
- **Peaceful Place**: "Imagine yourself in a peaceful place. It could be a beach, a forest, or a quiet room. Picture the details of this place—the sights, sounds, and smells. Allow yourself to feel calm and at ease in this environment."
- **Positive Affirmations**: "As you visualize this peaceful place, silently repeat positive affirmations to yourself. You might say, 'I am calm and relaxed,' or 'I am at peace.'"

#### Closing (1 minute)
- **Gradual Return**: "Begin to bring your awareness back to the present moment. Wiggle your fingers and toes, and gently stretch your body."
- **Open Your Eyes**: "When you are ready, slowly open your eyes. Take a moment to notice how you feel."
- **Thank You**: "Thank you for joining this guided meditation session. I hope you feel relaxed and centered. Let's carry this sense of calm with us throughout the day."

Feel free to adjust the timing and content to suit your needs and preferences. 



Radiant Intersection of Summer Solstice and Learning

As the Northern Hemisphere welcomes the summer solstice, the longest day of the year, we also step into the summer season, a period astrolog...

Popular Posts